What to Buy

Classic, cutting-edge, everyday and offbeat: the selection of goods being sold by the second in Hong Kong is befitting of a city that’s been a crossroads of global trade for over 150 years. Here’s where you can find what you want — or just lose yourself looking for it.

Chinese Snacks and Brews

Chinese pastries like the curiously named but flaky and chewy ‘wife cake’ are available year-round, as well as dried seafood and tonic foods in Sheung Wan, for the more adventurous. If you’re visiting the city during festive occasions, try the signature snacks, many of which are loaded with metaphorical meanings.

Fashion and Beauty

From skyscraper malls to cubby-hole stalls, the sheer variety of clothes shopping here is a sight to behold. Be measured for an affordable tweed three-piece suit, rifle through a pile of factory surplus in a noisy street market, or pick out uniquely Hong Kong silk chinoiserie and world-renowned creations of local designers. The shopping experience for cosmetics and skincare is no less varied and just about every budget is catered to.

Jewellery and Watches

With more jewellery stores per square kilometre than any other city in the world, it’s no surprise that the city has a vast supply of precious stones and metals as well as timepieces. Make things easier by narrowing your search down to Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Central, and Causeway Bay. The Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei is also a guaranteed fun few hours, whether you buy anything or not.

Toys

One thing that people of all ages love is toys, and although most toy manufacturing businesses left Hong Kong for Mainland China in the 1980s, locals have kept their passion for kiddie collectables alive. From semi-precious limited-edition figurines to the latest gadgets and games, Hong Kong specialises in all sorts of knickknacks from around the world. Try Tai Yuen Street in Wan Chai for something for every kid, big or small.

Traditional Wares and Wears

Aside from galleries, antiques shops and street markets on Cat Street and Hollywood Road, arts and crafts gems can be found all around town. From screens to traditional silk garments, from revolutionary memorabilia to seals, from calligraphy scrolls to porcelain tea sets, there are always exciting items to be unearthed. Be sure to pay a visit to Chinese department stores, Li Yuen East and West streets and Stanley Markets for a good look!